Marcy Kaptur: “I would like to thank Ranking Member Price for yielding us this time, as well as Chairman Aderholt and full committee…”

“I would like to thank Ranking Member Price for yielding us this time, as well as Chairman Aderholt and full committee Chairman Rogers, for their work on this legislation and for accepting and including the buy American language that we had worked so very hard and requested. The Department of Homeland Security needs to raise its consciousness about the importance of buying American and its relationship to jobs in America. Our language further clarifies what has long been the intent of Congress, that the Department of Homeland Security must comply with the Berry amendment and buy U.S.-made products. This is an essential provision for the American economy and our manufacturers. Congress has already voted to explicitly direct the Department of Homeland Security to comply with the Berry amendment. The Department of Homeland Security is either musclebound or has been dragging its feet, but somehow they're not hearing us for some odd reason. Also, the Department of Homeland Security's authorizing committee unanimously adopted an amendment that would ensure permanent compliance. The Department of Homeland Security, one of the largest departments in our government, should be the leader in Homeland Security, starting with strengthening American procurement. Can you imagine what they procure in a year? I know they buy a lot of U.S.-made flags--or at least they should--but also vessels, our Coast Guard's full array of equipment, security systems, weapons, uniforms, etc.…”